Are You Unknowingly Consuming Deadly Sugars?

Sugar is addictive, and unfortunately, it is present in a large portion of the foods we consume daily. It is a common ingredient in our favorite foods, from sweet desserts and sugary drinks to salad dressings and sauces.

We all know that sugar isn’t the healthiest choice, but do you know how much sugar you are consuming in a day? And more important, do you know what deadly sugars you should avoid?.

Sugar is a carbohydrate that is found naturally in some foods like fruit and vegetables, but most often is found in many processed and packaged foods like candies, soda, cereals, and even bread.

Sugar comes in many different forms, but the most commonly known are fructose, glucose, and sucrose.

How Much Sugar is Safe?

It’s important to know that not all sugar is created equal, and you can’t avoid it entirely. Glucose is a sugar that is essential to our bodies for energy, and our brain requires it for proper functioning.

However, the sugar to be wary of is added sugars. Added sugars are the sweeteners that are added to our food and drinks to improve the taste. The World Health Organization has recommended that we limit our intake of added sugars to no more than 10% of our daily caloric intake.

This means that for an average person consuming 2,000 calories per day, the recommended daily amount of added sugars should be no more than 200 calories or 50 grams of sugar.

What are Deadly Sugars?

There are many different types of added sugars, but some are more dangerous than others and can have deadly consequences. Here are some of the most dangerous sugars you should avoid:.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sugar that is derived from corn and is cheaper to produce than regular sugar. It is often found in sodas, sports drinks, and even ketchup.

HFCS is known to cause metabolic syndrome, an array of conditions that can lead to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems. It also increases inflammation in the body, which can impair the body’s ability to fight off diseases and infections.

Agave Nectar

Agave nectar is a sweetener that is derived from the agave plant. It’s often marketed as a healthier alternative to regular sugar as it has a lower glycemic index.

However, this is a false claim as agave nectar is higher in fructose than high fructose corn syrup. Excessive consumption of agave nectar can lead to liver damage, insulin resistance, and an increase in overall inflammation in the body.

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners like sucralose, aspartame, and saccharin are chemically engineered sweeteners that are often found in diet sodas, sugar-free gum, and candy.

While they don’t contain calories, they have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, neurological problems, and digestive upset.

Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin is a sugar that is derived from starches like rice, corn, and wheat. It is found in many packaged foods like crackers, cereals, and energy bars.

Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index, which means it can quickly spike blood sugar levels, leading to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other health problems.

How to Avoid Deadly Sugars?

Avoiding sugar entirely is impossible, but there are ways to reduce your intake of deadly sugars. Here are some tips:.

Read Labels

Reading labels is one of the best ways to avoid added sugars. Look for foods that are low in sugar or have no sugar added. Be wary of foods that have hidden sugars like BBQ sauce, salad dressings, and even bread.

If you see ingredients like HFCS, agave nectar, or maltodextrin, it’s best to avoid them.

Sweeten Naturally

If you need to sweeten your food or drinks, choose natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia. These sweeteners are less processed than regular sugar and don’t have the harmful effects of added sugars.

Avoid Processed Foods

Processed foods are often high in added sugars. Try to eat a diet that is rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins instead of relying on processed and packaged foods.

The Bottom Line

Sugar is everywhere and can be addictive, leading to deadly consequences if not consumed in moderation.

While it’s impossible to avoid sugar entirely, being aware of the different types of added sugars and their harmful effects can help you make better choices about the food you consume. By reading labels, sweetening naturally, and avoiding processed foods, you can limit your exposure to deadly sugars and take control of your health.